Plans to build a multimillion pound pub and 70-bed hotel at the entrance of the north-east’s largest town have moved forward.
The proposals for the Buchan Gateway project at the Invernettie roundabout, south of Peterhead, were fist mooted in 2003 when developers hoped the site would become a home for shops, restaurants, a supermarket and a petrol station.
And last night, Marston’s Inns and Taverns, which has already agreed to take on the ownership of a pub within the development, sealed its commitment to the project by submitting plans to Aberdeenshire Council for advertising boards.
The signs – for the as-yet unnamed pub – will be finished in black, gold and red, and also signals the arrival of a pizza kitchen within the site to cater for families.
The pub will have parking for more than 100 visitors, and include a second-floor living space for a landlord.
In total, it could create up to 45 jobs within the community.
“Marston’s is a recognised market leader as being best in class in the field of new licensed premises development,” a spokesman said.
“The majority of post holders are drawn from the immediate local area. Marston’s prides itself on offering good quality jobs and career progression.”
A neighbouring hotel will be spread over three floors and will contain a dining space and beds for 70 guests.
North-east councillors granted planning permission in principle for the whole scheme last August, although concerns were raised about major retail parks overshadowing the town centre shopping trade in Peterhead and the effect it would have on independent petrol stations.
The Buchan Gateway will feature two warehouses measuring 40,000sq ft and 50,000sq ft for food and retail units.
Developers Muir Group’s agent, John Agnew, has estimated it could generate £50million investment for the local economy.
The Buchan area committee agreed to back the scheme last August, but attached several conditions in a bid to protect businesses in the town.
Work to the site is expected to begin within the next two years.
